Learn Hardcore Icelandic: Bíllinn er lítill.

In Icelandic, the definite article is typically suffixed to the noun rather than standing as a separate word. So bíll (car) becomes bíllinn (the car). This is standard practice for forming definite nouns in Icelandic, and the exact suffix (-inn, -in, -ið, -inir, -inar, etc.) can vary depending on the gender, number, and case of the noun.

Why is the form of the adjective lítill used here?

Icelandic adjectives must agree in case, number, and gender with the noun they describe. Bíll is a masculine singular noun in the nominative case, so the adjective lítill (small) must appear in the masculine singular nominative form. If the noun were feminine or neuter, or if it were plural, the adjective would change accordingly.

What is the function of er in this sentence?

Er is the present tense third-person singular form of the verb að vera (to be). It simply links the subject bíllinn to its description lítill. In other words, it’s acting as the copular verb that states 'the car is small.'

How do you pronounce lítill correctly?

The í is pronounced like a long ee sound in English, and the t is softly articulated against the front of the tongue. The second l often has a slightly softer, palatal quality. If you listen to native speakers, you’ll notice an almost subtle tch or tl quality in the middle when spoken quickly, but aiming for a clear lee-till is a good start.

Why does the adjective appear after er, rather than before the noun?

In Icelandic, just like in English, when you use a verb such as er (is) to describe a subject, the adjective generally follows the verb. If you were simply describing the noun in a phrase (without a verb), the adjective would precede the noun. For instance: lítill bíll means a small car, but bíllinn er lítill means the car is small.